In a recent statement, opposition councillors in Draâ El Mizan, Algeria, accused the mayor of causing significant dysfunction within the commune's assembly. They claim the mayor has made unilateral decisions, disregarding the communal code and excluding the majority of councillors from decision-making processes. The opposition cited several examples, including the lack of a handover document between the outgoing and new mayor, and the failure to adopt an internal regulation.
The opposition councillors also pointed out that the mayor has scheduled council sessions every six months, whereas the communal code stipulates sessions every two months. Furthermore, they alleged that the mayor has designated commission presidents, rather than allowing the councillors to elect them. The opposition also criticized the mayor's handling of the 2020 budget, which they claim was adopted without proper discussion or approval.
The opposition councillors highlighted a specific incident where a councillor's proxy was rejected by the mayor, leading to the cancellation of a session. They also mentioned that a subsequent session was held with a reduced agenda, and several key decisions were made without adequate discussion. The opposition expressed concerns about the lack of transparency in the management of development programs, including housing and infrastructure projects.
In response to the opposition's allegations, Mayor Abdelghani Issolah denied any wrongdoing. He stated that the councillor who submitted the proxy was not present in the country and therefore could not participate in council decisions. The mayor also rejected claims of breaching the communal code, saying that the opposition councillors had not approached him to discuss any concerns.
Mayor Issolah emphasized that his administration has worked to unblock development programs and address social issues, such as housing. He claimed that the council's decisions are made with the participation of associations and village committees, as required by law. The mayor also stated that the opposition councillors are trying to block the council's work by focusing on past issues.
The mayor highlighted the achievements of his administration, including the continuation of development programs started by the previous administration. He expressed his commitment to working with all councillors, regardless of their political affiliation, to promote the interests of the commune and its citizens.
The dispute between the opposition councillors and the mayor has raised concerns about the functioning of the commune's assembly and the management of local development programs. The opposition's criticisms have sparked a debate about the need for greater transparency and accountability in local governance.
Key points
- Algerian opposition councillors in Draâ El Mizan accuse the mayor of breaching communal code and undemocratic decision-making.
- Mayor Abdelghani Issolah denies allegations, citing participation of associations and village committees in decision-making.
- Dispute raises concerns about local governance and management of development programs in Draâ El Mizan.
